President John Dramani Mahama has reacted to a viral video by environmental advocates “Buz Stop Boys” showing fish-mongering activities being carried out under insanitary conditions at Tema New Town, urging Ghanaians to be more responsible in protecting the environment.
The video, which has sparked public discussion on sanitation and environmental practices, showed heaps of waste around an area where fish was being dried for sale, raising concerns about the impact of poor sanitation on public health and livelihoods.
Speaking during Men Ministry Day Celebration at the Ringway Gospel Centre Assemblies of God Church on Sunday, August 2, President Mahama said the footage was a reminder that citizens have a role to play in maintaining clean surroundings.
“Recently I was watching a video, Buz Stop Boys went to Tema New Town and if you see the rubbish there, meanwhile they were drying fish and that fish was supposed to come into the market. The worst one was, some nice woman on the beach doing her business. We must be responsible as citizens,” he said.
The President stressed that efforts by authorities to address sanitation challenges must be matched by responsible behaviour from citizens.
He expressed concern that many people return to indiscriminate waste disposal once floodwaters recede, warning that the practice contributes to future flooding.
“Now the floods have gone and so we are like the vulture. Throwing sachet water, Styrofoam, food packaging and everything into the drain, we should remember that when the floods come they will come and meet those things there,” he said.
President Mahama said protecting the environment requires a change in attitude, with citizens taking ownership of their communities and understanding the consequences of their actions.
Drawing inspiration from the Bible, he quoted James 2:17 to emphasise the need for action alongside belief.
“James 2:17 tells us that faith without works is dead and so if our faith must go with works, then it must show in our character,” he added.
The President’s comments come amid ongoing concerns over sanitation, waste management and the impact of indiscriminate dumping on flooding and public health across the country.
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